Following the Lakers’ playoff exit at the hands of a young, speedy Thunder team, Luka Doncic took a moment to ponder what might have been.
Back in March, the Big Three was healthy and riding high on a 15-2 streak.
“I really thought we could compete for a championship,” reflected Doncic.
Yet, those aspirations dwindled as injuries struck both Doncic (hamstring) and Reeves (oblique), leading to their downfall against a more robust second-round opponent.
Operating under the philosophy that anything short of a championship is a letdown, the Lakers now find themselves needing to regroup. In the wake of their recent performance, Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ general manager, expressed his outlook during a recent press conference.
Pelinka emphasized building around Doncic and believes it’s possible while maintaining their core trio.
“We definitely want that core back together,” he stated.
This offseason has sparked considerable buzz for the Lakers, primarily due to impending choices from free agents like James, Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jackson Hayes, and Luke Kennard. There are also player options for Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton to consider.
One pivotal decision rests with James.
After a tough Game 4 against the Thunder, the 41-year-old reiterated his indecision about his future. Pelinka mentioned that they would gladly welcome James back if he opts for a 24th season.
“Naturally, every team, including ours, wants LeBron on their roster,” Pelinka commented. “What he brings is remarkable.”
However, for this to materialize, James might need to accept a significant cut from his $52.6 million contract this past season.
This season, James averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, stepping into the role of the team’s third option. His willingness to sacrifice for the group’s benefit is admirable, but can the Lakers find a more fitting role player than him? Doubtful.
If James chooses to return, it seems the Lakers would be the best place for him, considering he’s made L.A. his family home and has spent the last eight seasons there.
Before finalizing any decisions, James wants to discuss it with his family and take time for personal reflection on whether he still loves “the process.”
Regarding Reaves, he’s expected to turn down his $14.99 player option to test free agency. Still, he’s expressed his enjoyment of teaming up with Doncic and his desire to keep playing alongside James.
Pelinka is optimistic that an agreement with Reaves will proceed smoothly.
“He began his journey here as a Laker and has shown interest in continuing that journey with us,” Pelinka said, noting that Reaves had an impressive season with a career-high average of 23.3 points.
The key question remains: if the Lakers can retain their core, will they have the flexibility to create a competitive roster against the league’s top tier?
This indeed poses a significant challenge.
It’s well known that the Lakers hold three first-round picks and are eyeing Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason.
What became evident in their series against the Thunder is a pressing need for greater depth.
The Thunder had 13 players performing well, while the Lakers could only count on about six.
“I think adding depth, athleticism, and youth is crucial,” Pelinka remarked. “We already possess some, but there’s need for enhancement.”
The Lakers also urgently need more shooters to strengthen their defense and cater to Doncic’s needs. Pelinka hopes to unearth hidden talents who can be developed.
He pointed out that Ajay Mitchell, a second-round draft pick, led the team in a critical win during the series, showcasing his scoring and defensive skills.
“There are opportunities to improve the roster if we commit to finding the right players,” Pelinka added.
At the center of it all is Doncic, who led the league in scoring with an average of 33.5 points per game, while also ranking third in assists and sixth in steals.
He’s essential to the Lakers’ future.
Pelinka plans to meet Doncic soon and praised him for being transparent about his play style and desired teammates.
“We have ongoing dialogue with him and his representatives,” said Pelinka. “I’m looking forward to meeting him before he returns home to see his daughters.”
This offseason is set to be quite eventful for the Lakers.
There are certainly more questions than answers hanging in the air.
Yet one thing is clear: to vie for an 18th championship, the Lakers will need to implement some significant changes.
“We must craft a roster that can stand up to any team in the NBA,” Pelinka concluded. “That’s our aim going forward.”
